MGM unveils plans for resort at National Harbor

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. (WUSA9) -- Wednesday, MGM National Harbor revealed architect's renderings and video animation of the its vision for the destination resort it plans to build in Prince George's County.

MGM Resorts International Chairman and CEO Jim Murren said about the plans, "Knowing our resort will be the first representation of Maryland many visitors see crossing the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, we designed something striking and beautiful, respectful of the opportunity to create an iconic gateway to Maryland."

The resort will be on a hill on a stepped pedestal with panoramic views of the Potomac River and Washington, D.C. monumnents, according to MGM. "The pedestal is terraced into the landscape to incorporate a ninety-foot elevation change from the southwestern edge to the northeastern edge of the site, and gracefully move the eye from harbor level to the top of the plinth, creating a sense of respectful monumentality," said MGM officials in a press release on Wednesdday.

MGM's plan places the resort at one end of the National Harbor mixed-use development.The "siting and internalorganization"was inspired by the Pierre Charles L'Enfant's original 1791 plan for the layout of Washington, D.C., according to MGM.

The high-rise hotel rises from the resort pedestal and a roof "made of a sleekly engineered, wing-like sheath, that appears to float over the glass-walled areas below" connects it to the outdoor terrace, explained MGM officials. A skylight runs down the spine of the roof, allowing natural light to filter into the gaming area below during the day and"at night, interior illumination spills out from the casino area, allowing the edges of the roof to glow dramatically," according to officials.

MGM officials say with their plan visitors will be able to reach the resort via car, Metro bus, shuttle service and water taxi.

MGM says the project will create thousands of construction jobs and permanent resort operations careers in Prince George's County. MGM must get a new gaming license for Prince George's County before construction can begin, say officials. MGM National Harbor is one of three companies to submit proposals to the Maryland Video Lottery Facility Location Commission.